Shea named new Barrington School Committee Chairman

Bob Shea was unanimously named new Barrington School Committee Chairman Thursday night.

New school committee member Paula Dominguez nominated Mr. Shea for chairman. Her motion was seconded by school committee member Kate Brody.

Ms. Dominguez said she nominated Mr. Shea because he has consistently demonstrated that he listens to all parties, is fair and open minded and appreciates a good idea as a good idea regardless of what direction it comes from.

Mr. Shea thanked his colleagues for their support and said he was grateful for the opportunity.

Mr. Shea also thanked Patrick Guida, the committee’s former chairman. Mr. Shea described Mr. Guida as a “steady hand” for the board. Mr. Shea also said Mr. Guida has set a high bar and it has been a pleasure to serve with him.

“On behalf of the entire community, thank you for your service as chair,” Mr. Shea said. His comments were followed by a standing round of applause in honor of Mr. Guida.

Mr. Guida had no comment on the committee’s change in chairman.

Ms. Brody, meanwhile, was unanimously approved as the committee’s new vice-chairwoman, a role formerly held by Scott Fuller.

Mr. Guida and Mr. Shea were both re-elected to the school committee in November while Ms. Dominguez was elected to her first term. The school committee now includes three Democrats in Mr. Shea, Ms. Dominguez and Ms. Brody alongside Mr. Fuller and Mr. Guida, both Republicans.